Published October 2024
Editor’s Note: Several important changes have taken place during the 2024 legislative session. Though the advice from the multiple service providers is kept brief here, there are many important lessons to learn and actions to take.
Welcome back, snowbirds. Is your property a candidate for patio furniture restoration? Condominiums, country clubs, and HOAs with old and worn patio furniture should consider a powder-coating restoration process instead of taking on the greater expense of furniture replacement. If the finish on the frames is still in great condition, then simply re-strapping or re-slinging is also an option. You can completely update the look of your furniture and save your property a lot of money at the same time! Communities can select from a large array of metal finishes, fabrics, and color schemes. This selection includes hundreds of colors, patterns, and fabrics for slings, straps, and cushions, which allows a community to select something they feel will fit with their already established décor, effectively creating an overall coordinated and polished look. The flexibility of powder coating makes it a great choice for any metal restoration project.
Tammy Leeman is the owner of Absolute Patio Furniture. For more information call 954-917-2715 ext. 204, email tammy@absolutepowdercoat.com, or visit www.absolutepowdercoat.com.
Welcome back! Do you need a new roof? How do you know for sure? Alliance Consulting & Testing has helped community association managers across the country by providing unbiased assessments of their community’s roofing needs. We take the guesswork out of roof system management with the following steps:
Inspection—We’ll inspect your roofs and provide expert, unbiased analysis on whether to repair, replace, or budget for the future.
Project Scope—If repair or replacement is necessary, we’ll write the scope of work to help you get the bid process started so that you pay a fair price for only the services you need.
Quality Assurance—Once work is completed, Alliance Consulting & Testing will inspect it to make sure it was done right.
At Alliance Consulting & Testing, we don’t sell roofs or roofing products, but we’ll make sure you get the full value out of yours.
Bill Harris, RRO, is president of Alliance Consulting & Testing. For more information, call 888-777-7001 or visit roofexpert.com.
We are so happy you are back in town and even happier that you are on the board! What a wonderful position to volunteer for that will help keep your community looking its best! With the new requirements for board member certification, I hope it doesn’t deter you from continuing on the board or volunteering in your community. If you haven’t attended some of the awesome conferences by organizations that host these events, you are missing out on not only a wonderful opportunity to obtain some valuable information but also a fabulous chance to network with your fellow board members, share your wisdom, and gain a wealth of knowledge from some of the best! Don’t let the new requirements throw you off; if it wasn’t for people like you, who knows where your community would be today. If the path to your meetings is full of potholes, please reach out to us here at Asphalt Restoration for your free evaluation.
Connie Lorenz is the owner of Asphalt Restoration Technology Systems. For more information, call 800-254-4PDC (4732) or visit AsphaltNews.com.
Proper enforcement procedure, and what can go wrong if it is not done properly, is the lesson of this case study.
An owner was alleged to have violated the HOA’s governing documents by not properly maintaining his home. The HOA sent several notices to the owner stating that he was in violation of the governing documents. Receiving no compliance or response, the HOA started down the route of the fining procedure pursuant to F.S. §720.305(2). The HOA sent a notice to the owner that in 13 days there would be a hearing with respect to whether fines would be imposed. The HOA fines committee did approve the fines. Fines remained unpaid, and the HOA recorded a claim of lien and later filed a two-count lawsuit seeking to foreclose the claim of lien or, alternatively, seek monetary damages for the fines imposed.
The appellate court pointed out that this case ultimately involves a matter of statutory interpretation. The appellate court pointed out that F.S. §720.305(2)(b) states that a fine or suspension may not be imposed unless the board first provides the parcel owner at least 14 days’ notice of the committee hearing on the issue. The court was clear that 13 days’ notice did not meet the dictates of the statute.
If your association is going to conduct internal enforcement (fines and suspensions), you must err on the side of providing ample due process which meets or exceeds the statutory requirements.
Jay Roberts, Esq., is office managing shareholder of Becker. For more information call 850-664-2229, email jroberts@beckerlawyers.com, or visit www.beckerlawyers.com.
As the Florida sun welcomes everyone back from their summer getaways, it’s a reminder that budgeting season is just around the corner. With rising costs and growing demands on community resources, communities are increasingly seeking creative solutions to boost revenue and improve resident satisfaction. One practical approach they are leveraging is establishing bulk agreements with telecom providers.
Bulk agreements for telecom services can save HOAs and their residents significant money, even in communities with many seasonal residents. The key is finding a provider that can tailor a plan to meet these specific needs. Bulk broadband services typically cost up to 50 percent less than individual retail prices, providing substantial savings.
Another benefit for seasonal residents is that some providers offer services that allow TV subscribers to access their favorite shows anywhere in the U.S. at no additional cost. This eliminates the need for two providers, reduces duplicate expenses, and ensures consistent TV access across primary and secondary homes or while on the go.
To learn more about Blue Stream Fiber, our fiber infrastructure, and a free network evaluation for your community, please visit Bluestreamfiber.com/bulk.
Welcome back, snowbirds! While you were away, significant legislative changes have taken place in Florida. New laws and regulations have been implemented that greatly impact community associations. These changes are already in effect and include new educational requirements for board members and many other small changes that may or may not impact your community! To keep Florida condominium and HOA board members well-informed about the latest developments in state law regarding community associations, we recommend checking out Florida Association News (FAN). FAN serves as the go-to online resource for news, legal updates, and events for board members, property managers, owners, and service providers in the Florida community association industry. Best of all, FAN is completely free and offers a monthly newsletter, blog, and educational webinars for board members.
Ashley Dietz Gray is vice president of marketing for Campbell Property Management. For more details and to access FAN, visit GetFAN.org.
As you return to your Florida home, take time to reconnect and rejuvenate.
First Things First—Check in with your community association. Update your contact information and review any new policies or changes. Take a moment to inspect your property, ensuring everything is in prime condition after the summer.
Check for Updates—Visit your association’s website to catch up on any updates or changes that occurred while you were away. Review the minutes from board meetings you missed.
Notify Financial Institutions—Inform your bank and credit card companies of your return to Florida to avoid any unnecessary fraud alerts.
Manage Your Mail—Remove any holds or forwarding requests on your mail to ensure you receive all your correspondence promptly.
Socialize—Engage in local events, from social mixers to seasonal celebrations, and reacquaint yourself with local amenities.
Welcome back to your home away from home!
To learn more about how Castle Group can serve your community, request a proposal at castlegroup.com/request-a-proposal/.
When seasonal board members are returning to Florida, it’s typically also budget season, so what a great time to think about implementing best practices in banking for ensuring financial stability and transparency. Associations should establish a dedicated bank account for operating funds, separate from reserve funds, to avoid commingling resources. Regular financial reporting, including monthly statements and annual budgets, promotes accountability among board members and fosters trust within the community.
Additionally, associations should conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with financial policies and identify any discrepancies early on. Utilizing online banking tools can streamline payments and enhance cash flow management while also providing a secure platform for
transactions.
Be sure not to overlook being over the FDIC limit. Maintaining good relationships with local banks can provide access to favorable interest rates and financial products tailored to the unique needs of associations, including solutions for extended FDIC coverage.
Jennifer Duryea is a relationship manager in Southwest Florida for Centennial Bank. For more information, visit www.my100bank.com/association-banking.
As our snowbird residents begin their migration back to the warm Florida sunshine, associations will get increasingly busy. Let’s explore some best practices to stay well prepared and stress-free during this time.
Prepare for the Unexpected—The fast pace of snowbird season is filled with twists and turns. An emergency line of credit is a smart strategy that can help serve as a safety net if anything should happen.
Go Digital—Setting up online banking for your board members is especially important during busier times of the year as it ensures real-time awareness throughout your association. Consider a financial partner with advanced digital banking capabilities.
Seek Out the Specialists—Banking partners that specialize in banking for community associations are an essential part of effectively managing your budget and finances. Cogent Bank, for instance, has a team of banking professionals solely dedicated to delivering exceptional banking products and services to associations.
Anna Rogers is senior vice president, community association relationship manager for Cogent Bank. For more information, call 888-577-0404 or visit cogentbank.com.
Do you have seasonal Florida residents? Not only can Xfinity help residents stay connected to their seasonal home while away, but we also make it easy to put Xfinity services on hold including TV, internet, and voice. With Xfinity’s Seasonal Convenience Plan, residents will have no reconnection fees upon return and can restore services quickly and easily without a visit from a technician. While away, seasonal residents can keep their home phone number and be able to access their Xfinity email account from anywhere. Wi-Fi equipment can even stay in the home while they’re gone, with no need to return it! If residents have smart devices like a thermostat or security cameras, they can still access them remotely with the Xfinity Internet Seasonal Access Option.
Scan the QR code below to receive a call regarding any questions on Xfinity services for your property.
Property managers face unique challenges as snowbirds return to Florida, particularly when maintaining laundry equipment. The following are some tips to ensure a smooth transition:
Pre-Season Equipment Check—Inspect all laundry equipment and utilities. Ensure that washers/dryers are in optimal condition for increased usage. Replace any worn-out parts, address maintenance issues, and clean the vents annually.
Clear Communication—Inform residents about any changes to laundry services before the snowbirds arrive. Effective communication helps set expectations and avoids misunderstandings.
Capacity Planning—Anticipate the increased demand for laundry facilities during the snowbird season. Consider using on-demand pricing to spread usage out.
Responsive Support—Ensure your service team is readily available to address equipment malfunctions or service requests promptly. Quick response times are crucial for maintaining resident satisfaction.
By following these tips, you can effectively prepare for the influx of snowbirds and ensure their laundry equipment services are up to the highest standards, leading to a positive experience for all.
For more information about Commercial Laundries, call 786-982-7729 or visit www.commerciallaundries.com.
Whether you are a seasonal or permanent resident, it is beneficial to know how your plumbing system works. Averaging 10,000 service calls annually, we have listed some items to help you navigate your plumbing effectively.
Shut-Off Valves—Know how to properly shut off the water to your residence. Make sure the shut-off valve(s) are in operational working order.
Address Issues Early—Early detection allows for prompt repairs or maintenance, potentially saving you from costly and extensive damage.
Inspect for Leaks—Proper routine checks are good practice. A running toilet can cause a high water bill. Also, early leak detection can prevent costly water damage.
Building Policies—Have a knowledge of your building’s repair and maintenance policies. Are there certain times service providers are allowed in the building? Is a certificate of insurance required? Does the building have a vetted, licensed, and insured plumbing company?
By investing time in learning about your plumbing system, you not only protect your home from potential issues but also gain confidence and control over its maintenance and management.
Kevin Berounsky is vice president of Douglas Orr Plumbing. For more information, call 305-240-6731, email kevin@orrplumbing.com, or visit www.orrplumbing.com.
Welcome back to the Sunshine State! As you settle in, a top priority should be a safety and security check for your home and community.
Here’s a quick checklist:
If your community maintains any type of visitor management system, reevaluate who is listed as your approved guests. Check your personal visitor list and review any companies or contractors. Remove any unnecessary or unknown names. This prevents unauthorized access to the community.
Review and update your household’s contact information. Whether it’s a gate access system or concierge service, confirm that your personal contact information is correct. This is generally how you’re notified of visitors or other pertinent information in your community.
Walk through the property and double-check cameras, doors, fences, and other access points.
Community safety is the job of everyone in the community. You’ll be able to more thoroughly enjoy your Florida home, knowing it is safe and secure.
Nathan Varn is the VP sales & marketing at Envera Systems, a security software and technology company. For more information, visit www.enverasystems.com.
You don’t want to waste any time to enjoy all the perks of Florida living when you return to your condominium for the season. Before you pack your beach bag, however, it is important to inspect your unit for signs of leaks, water damage, or mold that may have occurred while it was vacant. Leaks and mold growth can spread beyond your unit and can impose liability on you for damage that reaches outside the confines of your unit. Condominium governing documents typically deem that unit owners are responsible for remediating and repairing their individual units, and the association is responsible for the common elements. As an exception, many governing documents shift liability for damages onto a unit owner who willfully or negligently causes damage to the common elements. If you find damage to your unit, it is very important to remediate the issue and notify your condominium association in the event the damage may have spread or affected the building structure.
Justin Smith and Kyle Alonso are senior associates with Haber Law. For more information, call 305-379-2400 or visit www.haber.law.
As we warmly welcome our valued seasonal residents back to their association-led communities, Hotwire Communications is committed to providing you with a seamless and personalized experience tailored to fit your unique connectivity needs.
Hotwire offers a range of services designed to make your return as smooth as possible. Our Fision Educators are available to provide training sessions to reacquaint you with all aspects of your Fision services. Whether you need a refresher on navigating the TV menu guide, managing your Wi-Fi settings, accessing your community’s custom information channel, or utilizing our intuitive online customer portal, our Fision Educators are here to help.
Additionally, our teams ensure that your fiber-to-the-home technology and Wi-Fi speeds are optimized for the best possible experience. With 24/7 monitoring of our network infrastructure, Hotwire guarantees reliable high-speed connectivity from the moment you return.
Welcome back! Let Hotwire Communications be your trusted partner in delivering exceptional fiber-based services with a focus on personalized support and optimal performance for you and your community.
For more information about Hotwire Communications, visit www.hotwirecommunications.com.
Welcome back, snowbirds! Before settling into your Florida residence that was sitting unoccupied all summer, here are some essential tips to ensure everything is running properly and safely.
To-dos upon your return are as follows:
Check your HVAC and thermostat—Make sure they are working correctly to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Consider installing a smart thermostat—This can help cool your residence remotely and save on your electric bill.
Schedule a maintenance check—Arrange for a professional inspection and testing of your unit before you arrive.
Turn on your main water valve—Open all faucets to check for leaks, paying special attention to refrigerator and dishwasher lines.
Plug in all appliances—Ensure they are functioning and replace batteries in any battery-operated items.
Test the smoke alarm—Confirm it’s working to ensure your safety.
Open shutters—Verify they are operational to ensure security.
Report any issues—If anything seems broken or not functioning properly, notify the property management company immediately.
Following these critical steps will help minimize headaches and maximize your enjoyment of your winter escape.
Erin Fabian is regional vice president for KW PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & CONSULTING. For more information, contact KWPMC’s Erin Fabian at 813-448-3981, email efabian@KWPMC.com, or visit www.kwpmc.com.
Welcome back, snowbirds! For condominium owners, here are some tips to consider upon your return or departure!
Have you come home to a lingering odor? The culprit might be the p-traps underneath your sinks or floor drains. Water in these traps can dry up when not used for extended periods of time, and as such, odors can rise. Try pouring some water down the drains to see if that takes care of the smell.
Consider having a water heater leak alarm with an automatic shut-off valve installed. They’re inexpensive and an excellent safeguard to have in place in case your water heater fails while you’re away.
Are you thinking of saving on your power bill by turning the AC off while you’re going to be away? Don’t do it! If you do, you are creating prime conditions for mold to grow. Always keep your AC on when you are away.
Finally, consider having someone check your unit if you plan on being gone for a while. Have them do things like flush toilets, run sinks, check the AC, etc. You’ll be glad you did!
Joseph Estrada is divisional director for Leland Management. For more information, visit www.LelandManagement.com or call 888-465-0346.
Welcome back to paradise! Now that you have returned, it is important to check out your existing HOA, condominium, apartment, or commercial property carports to make sure that they are safe and in good condition.
Carports are a great way to protect your vehicles from weather-related events—and in particular from the sun’s intense heat here in Florida. However, if your carport is in poor condition or not up to current Florida Building Code requirements, it can actually be a significant liability and dangerous. An old carport can collapse onto vehicles during extreme weather, causing extensive property damage, vehicular damage, bodily injury, or worse.
If you notice issues with your existing carport, know that they are old and need to be replaced, or are simply unsure and have questions, contact Nate Yoder, VP at Mullet’s Aluminum Products Inc. via telephone 941-371-3502, ext. 218, or email nate@mulletsaluminum.com.
Welcome back, snowbirds! Did you know that silicone-based architectural wall coatings may, over time, become unsightly due to atmospheric deposits of dust and dirt? Even cleaning can be costly and is only a temporary measure at remediation. Unfortunately, recoating is typically limited to silicone-based materials as most organic coatings will not adhere to the existing silicone-based coating. Recoating with high-quality acrylic architectural coatings is also not an option. Don’t fret; we have a solution, Pecora SilcoPrime. SilcoPrime is an STPU-based (silyl-terminated polyurethane) interlaminary primer specifically formulated to promote the adhesion of exterior-grade, non-silicone-based architectural wall coatings when applied over existing silicone-based wall coatings. The coating will act as a permanent bridge between the existing silicone base coating and the new acrylic architectural coating. This provides the advantage of flexibility to choose from a wide array of colors and coating manufacturers when considering a recoat
application!
For more information about SilcoPrime, please call 800-523-6688, email techservices@pecora.com, or visit www.pecora.com/coatings/.
Returning to your vacation home can be exciting and maybe even a little bit scary. After all, some items and systems in your home may have gone a bit south while you were away. That’s why it’s essential to ensure everything is in order when you arrive. A handy checklist follows:
Inspect the exterior of your property for visible signs of damage. If applicable, check the roof and any outdoor spaces.
Examine your plumbing for leaks or signs of water damage, especially in areas where pipes may have been exposed to hot or cold temperatures.
Test your HVAC system and change air filters as needed.
Examine your appliances, making sure they’re in working condition.
Inspect your home security system and update any passwords or codes.
Test outlets and replace any expired batteries in smoke detectors.
Walk through each room to look for signs of pests or mold.
Camille Moore is a creative content writer for RealManage. For more information, visit www.realmanage.com.
We’re glad you’re back, snowbirds! By now, if your community has buildings three stories or higher, you’ve likely completed your structural integrity reserve study. With associations seeing an average reserve contribution increase of 141 percent as a result of their SIRS, it has become increasingly apparent that not only are a majority of associations underfunded, but many associations also lack alignment on the timing of capital-intensive projects.
Your SIRS acts as a handbook for getting back on track, so it’s important for you to familiarize yourself with both the results and the plan of action. However, underfunding and deferred maintenance are not exclusive to three-story communities, and because of the ramifications each can bring, it is best practice for non-SIRS associations to conduct regular reserve studies. Reserve studies can help you navigate muddy waters and, better yet, can mitigate these issues before they even arise.
Regardless of the study type, keep in mind the importance of updating the study regularly, or after a capital-intensive project has been completed, to maintain accuracy. And remember, Reserve Advisors is here to help your communities remain resilient and prosperous!
Nick Brenneman is Southeast regional account manager for Reserve Advisors. For more information, call 813-536-7199, email nick@reserveadvisors.com, or visit www.reserveadvisors.com.
For board members, effective communication is crucial for successful community management. One best practice is to maintain transparency with residents. Regularly update the community through newsletters, emails, or meetings to keep everyone informed about decisions, upcoming events, and changes in policies. This helps build trust and reduces misunderstandings.
Additionally, encourage open dialogue by setting up channels for residents to voice their concerns and feedback. This could be through suggestion boxes, online forums, or dedicated office hours. Actively listening to and addressing residents’ concerns fosters a collaborative atmosphere and promotes community engagement.
Lastly, ensure that all board meetings are well organized and documented. Share meeting minutes promptly to keep everyone on the same page. By prioritizing clear and consistent communication, board members can enhance community satisfaction and streamline management processes.
Lindsay Heysler is senior business development and marketing manager for Seacrest Services Inc. For more information call 561-697-4990 or visit www.SeacrestServices.com.
Many communities can face a surge in requested maintenance projects as snowbirds return and view the community with fresh eyes. Some typical maintenance needs to proactively consider include the following:
Plumbing and Electrical: Inspect leaks within the property’s plumbing and check area lighting, smoke detectors, and fire alarms.
HVAC Systems: Inspect and schedule proactive maintenance for increased heating and cooling use.
Pest and Mold Control: Schedule services for potential pest activity or mold growth increases from months of resident vacancy.
Landscape and Exteriors: Check for building or property roof leaks, exterior wear and tear, and area landscaping hazards.
Pools and Common Areas: Clean and service pools, sports areas, elevators, and other common areas for the influx of residents.
Proactive or immediate maintenance ensures a well-kept community and creates a welcoming, stress-free environment for snowbird residents to return home to!
TJ Evans is the division president of Sentry Management’s Fort Myers and Naples divisions. He has been with the company since March 2023 and has over five years of experience in community association management. For more information, visit www.sentrymgt.com.
Welcome back, snowbirds! You probably experienced record heat this summer as we certainly did in Florida. You may see the effects of those “feels like 110” degree days in the landscaping and in the water and power bills.
You could soon smell the effects of those scorchers in the trash rooms. Dealing with garbage odors starts with a professional chute cleaning, but there are long-term solutions such as odor control systems, odor counteractant products, and deodorant blocks. As summers (and winters) get hotter, you might need an arsenal of products to
call on.
One way to reduce electricity bills is to have the dryer risers in your building cleaned every few years. A lint buildup not only is a fire hazard but also makes the dryers work much harder to dry the loads. By cleaning out the lint professionally, you get more efficient drying times and performance.
Enjoy the season!
Joanna Ribner is president of Southern Chute. For more information call 866-475-9191 or visit www.southenchute.com.
Welcome back, snowbirds! As you settle in, take a moment to reacquaint yourself with your community’s access control systems. These systems are in place for your safety and provide peace of mind. Getting familiar with them will ensure everything runs smoothly so you can enjoy the relaxed Florida lifestyle you’ve been looking forward to.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Update or Install Necessary Apps—Ensure you have the latest version installed on your device. If you’re new to the system, download and set up the app before arrival.
Check for System Updates—If you’ve used the system before, check for any updates or changes since your last stay. This could include new gate codes, key card replacements, or changes in visitor policies.
Familiarize Yourself with Entry Procedures—Review the specific procedures for entering and exiting the community, including any guest requirements. This might include pre-registering visitors or knowing when to use particular access points.
Test Your Access Methods—Whether it’s a key fob, gate code, or app, test your access method to ensure everything works smoothly before you need it.
Stay Informed on Emergency Protocols—Familiarize yourself with the community’s emergency procedures, such as evacuation routes and shelter locations, to be prepared in any situation.
If you encounter any issues or have questions, contact community security or property management. They can provide assistance and ensure seamless access.
For more information about TekWave Solutions, email info@tekwavesolutions.com or visit www.tekwavesolutions.com.
Returning snowbird residents, who split their time between warmer climates in winter and cooler areas in summer, should follow best practices to ensure a smooth transition back to their homes in homeowners’ associations (HOAs).
First, inform the HOA management of your return date to reinstate any paused services and receive updates on community changes. Check the HOA’s rules and regulations for any updates made during your absence to avoid unintentional violations.
Inspect your home for maintenance issues such as leaks, pest infestations, and electrical problems. Address these promptly to prevent further damage.
Reconnect with neighbors and participate in community events to stay informed and engaged. Regularly attend HOA meetings to stay abreast of important decisions and voice any concerns.
Finally, review and update your contact information and emergency plans with the HOA to ensure timely communication in case of emergencies. These practices will help maintain harmony and ensure a pleasant stay in your community.
Tara Tallaksen is a marketing and sales assistant for Vesta Property Services. For more information, call 877-988-3782 or visit www.VestaPropertyServices.com.